Very worried...?

Question

My cousin dropped her 5 month old Chihuahua puppy off for me to watch yesterday morning until about Saturday afternoon. I've never had him for more than a day, so last night was his first night staying overnight. He ate his meals yesterday and was fine. Today, we woke up at around 7:00 am. I took him outside to use the bathroom, then offered him some food. He didn't eat it so I thought it was earlier than the time he usually eats. I offered him food a few hours later, and again he didn't touch it. I left the food out to see if at any point in the day he'd eat it. I took him outside for several potty breaks throughout the day and brought him to the food bowl after he came inside. He wouldn't touch the food. Now, it's 4:00 pm. and he hasn't had a thing to eat all day. I'm extremely worried that he's sick, but I'm just thinking he misses his owner and just doesn't want to eat. Should I be worried?

He’s a puppy so there is a chance he could have eaten something he shouldn’t have, but I can’t be positive. He has another meal coming up so I’m going to try to offer some boiled chicken mixed with his food. What should I do if he doesn’t eat? I don’t want him to starve and get sick. Since he’s still a puppy and a Chihuahua, I’m worried about hypoglycemia. Is there really anything to worry about? I’ve never had a dog before, let alone a puppy, so I’m not sure what to do. Also, throughout the day, his stomach has been making bubbling/gurgling noises. Is that something to worry about? If anyone could help me out I’d really appreciate it. I’d also love to hear from people who have been in a similar situation. I’m really at a loss as to what to do.

Answer 1

I have two dogs and they are my babies. I wouldn't worry too much about it. Once he gets hungry, he will definitely eat. When the owner is away from their dog, sometimes they might have separation anxiety and might not eat. There are several dogs that do that. Just give it some time and once he gets hungry, he'll come around.

Answer 2

There is a chance he is sick or it could be he is just missing his mom and isn't sure what is going on.
If he doesn't eat and you are afraid of hypoglycemia you can first put a teaspoon of honey in his water and about 6 times a day give him about a 1/4 teaspoon of honey directly in his mouth.
If you can try to go to a petstore and ask if they have Nutrical or something like it ( it is a paste type of vitamin with high sugar 9good to always have with a chi))\ give this to him about 4 times a day instead of the honey only about 1/2 inch.
You can try the chicken but do realize if he isn't use to it it can upset his tummy and give him diarhea.
As long as you make sure he is drinking so he doesn't dehydrate and make sure he gets the honey or nutraical he should be fine.
This is very normal that they won't eat when they go somewhere and out of their normal situation. I really wouldn't worry to much as long as you do as I have suggested.
Good Luck

Answer 3

Is he still drinking? If so, you might put a little Karo syrup in his water. That will help if you are worried about hypoglycemia. A teaspoon should do. The chicken will probably tempt him enough to try a bite or two. Give him lots of love and attention, maybe even try hand feeding him the chicken. I am sure he is confused as to where mommy went. Keep a close eye on him, but I think you are right.

Answer 4

you are worrying too much. Just give him some really tastily cooked soft meat, like minced pork mixed with rice etc. Didnt its owner tell you already what to feed it and what not to? Well, if you have followed her instructions perfectly, its mayb that the little dog is not used to its new surroundings and just refuses to eat no matter what you do. But try a really tasty meat and more importantly play with it coz it needs to be comfortable before anything else. If it doesnt eat by tonight, leave the food overnight, and if it is really dying, then it will instinctly eat. Or else, dont bother yourself too much, you have tried your best.

Answer 5

Our dog does the same thing if we ever have her watched by someone else. Whether it's the new surroundings, or the dog misses its owner, I don't know. I don't think it's anything to worry about for today. If he still doesn't eat tomorrow, I would definitely call a vet for some advice. You are a good cousin to worry so much!

Answer 6

He could just be missing his owner....
When I look after my nans Chihuahua she sulks for a while and refuses to eat for a few hours untill shes really hungry, but if your dog hasnt eaten all day he could be feeling unwell.
Has he been pooping and peeing? And has he been drinking? If not he may be feeling a bit ill.
Offer him something nice, chicken, ham etc and see if he`ll eat that.
If he hasnt eaten by morning, ring the vets and ask for advice, they should be able to help you out, but I wouldnt worry too much.

Answer 7

it might be because he's hungry that his stomach is gurgling. he probably misses your cousin. andt he stress is bringing this about. if he looks and seems sick, or if he has a fever, call the vet. but if he's just not eating,, then it's just the stress. play with him and keep him happy. or maybe you can tempt him with a treat or two. call your cousin and see what he/she says. usually dogs will eat something eventually. make sure he's still using the bathroom and keep plenty of water and love on hand

Answer 8

He could just be off a little because he is missing your cousin. A lot of dogs that are boarded at kennels will do the same thing. Call your cousin and see if there are any treats she allows that he can't resist. Make sure he is getting plenty of fresh water and is doing his thing on potty breaks.

Answer 9

He needs to eat something. Going all day without food isn't good.
He can get hypoglycemic(low blood sugar).
I am sure he misses his owner.
Maybe if you try hand feeding him his food. Give him piece by piece and see if he eats it.
If he doesn't eat, contact the owner. You may have to give him nutri-cal if he refuses to eat. First contact the owner and talk with them. If the owner is not available then give the vet a call.

Answer 10

Everything around him has changed so he's a little confused. Leave the food for him & when he gets hungry he will eat. The added chicken may encurage him to eat. I wouldn't worry, just give him time to adjust.